THOMASTON — Robert Dow Jr., 79, died Tuesday, Feb. 9, 2021, at Beacon Brook Health Center in Naugatuck.
Bob was born in Bridgeport on Aug. 5, 1941, son of the late Robert and Anna Dow. While growing up in Bridgeport, Bob attended schools there and in Fairfield. Robert served in the United States Navy as a machinist mate for four years active duty and two years active reserves.
After leaving the service, he attended Bullard Haven Technical School and graduated in the sheet metal field. Upon graduation, he served four years of apprenticeship and worked for over 45 years in the sheet metal field at various companies throughout New Haven County. Upon his retirement from Dasco Welded Products, he worked at Lucas Manufacturing, where he designed and set up a sheet metal fabrication/welding department. He was also instrumental with designing and setting up his wife’s mobile grooming van along with helping her on the truck, where he became a staple to their customers.
Bob was an avid motorcyclist and attended Daytona Bike Week for years along with going to Laconia, N.H. He traveled across country several times on his motorcycle and enjoyed the thrill of seeing the country on a motorcycle versus a car. When he wasn’t riding his motorcycles, he was on the Housatonic River with his friend Pete waterskiing. He was also a die-hard fan of the New York Jets, following them from when they were originally called the Titans, the Yankees and NASCAR. But the team that was close to his heart was the UConn women’s basketball team. He knew all the girls names from years back and could tell you all the stats of each player.
He is survived by his wife of 33 years, MaryEllen; son, Stephen and wife, Melissa; daughters, Dawn Dow of Ansonia and Tammy Dow of Middletown; sister, Elizabeth Gulla and husband, Robert, of Forest, Va.; seven grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; several cousins, nephews and a niece. He was predeceased by his son, Robert Dow III.
Burial will be at the convenience of the family, and donations can be made to Dp Rescue, 25 Eugene Ave., Bristol, CT 06010. Arrangements entrusted to Buckmiller Thurston Mengacci Funeral Home, 82 Fairview Ave., Naugatuck.
To leave an online condolence, visit www.buckmillerthurstonmengacci.com.
